Valley Christian Magazine February 2014

February 2014

s o o tt a T&Ties Dealing with

Discouragement

p10

Not Finished Yet

p36

5

p20

Scriptures to Pray Over Your Marriage p16

JEEP RUBICON

NEW 2014

2 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Acts 1:8 “but you shAll receive power when the holy spirit hAs come upon you; And you shAll be witnesses to me in JerusAlem, And in All JudeA And sAmAriA, And to the ends of the eArth.”

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What’s Inside?

February 2014 Features

Vol. 3 / Issue 11 To submit story ideas, events, or comments: valleychristianmagazine@gmail.com

On The Cover

Tattoos and Ties p.20

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Cover photo by Brian Burns

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12 15 Ways to Love 22 Music Spotlight:

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37 Events

National Columnists

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Stella Gallegos 956-854-1601

10 Greg Laurie

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Ronnie Guerra Vela 956-599-8036

Dealing with Discouragement

16 Lysa Terkeurst

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5 Scriptures to pray over your Marriage

Leila Bird 512-501-9471

26 James MacDonald

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Christian Torres Publisher

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What to do when you’re going under

38 Dave Ramsey

Valley Contributors 8 Abram Gomez

The Forgiveness Factor

Jonathan Martin

14 Jerrell Jobe

James Alexander

20 Tom Weaver

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Valley Christian Magazine is a publication of Texas Christian Publications (a 501c3 organization). Texas Christian Publications reserves the right to edit, modify, revise, rewrite and reject editorial materials and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors, omissions or consequences arising from it. All correspondence to this publication becomes the property of Texas Christian Publications. Texas Christian Publications shall be held harmless indemnified against any third-party claims. Texas Christian Publications accepts no claims made by photographers, agents or contributors. Writers’ and columnists’ opinions are not necessarily those of Texas Christian Publications or its publishers. Advertisements appearing in Texas Christian Publications present only the viewpoint of the advertisers. We assume no responsibility for advertising claims made in this publication. Valley Christian Magazine is printed in the United States. Reproduction without the expressed written permissi on prohibited.

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The Voice of Vocation Tattoos and Ties

24 Theresa Valladares Tell Me

36 Eli Lara

Courtyard Interview

Ask Dave!

Are you praying for something and still waiting for

an answer?

What if God answered?

What if you didn’t hear it?

I don’t know about you but this fear likes to hang out in the back of my mind sometimes.

Why do you think we don’t hear God’s answer? Could it be because it’s not the answer we’re looking for? (Sorry I went there….guess I’m confessing a little) Could it be that we weren’t even listening? Or maybe we are little afraid of what the answer might be? Or is there so much noise around you that you couldn’t hear if you tried?

I love the story of Elijah. In 1 Kings 19, Elijah is hiding out in a cave. He had just done some pretty incredible things for God. The people of Israel had torn down the alters of the Lord and were now worshiping Baal. He had called for all the prophets of Baal and gave them and their god a chance to prove that Baal was greater than the Lord.

Elijah stood up to them and believed and shown how the Lord was in fact the Lord. After getting rid of all the false prophets, he was threatened by Jezebel. She threatened to kill him so he ran. He ran and hid, forgetting what a great and mighty thing the Lord had just done through him.

This fear comes over all of us. Whether you’re a new believer or one whom God has used in a great way. We get scared and want to give up like Elijah.

While hiding in a cave, God presented himself to Elijah.

First a wind that tore down the mountains appeared and then a great earthquake. God was not present in either one. They were both grand and loud. You might think that God would have been in those things…but he wasn’t.

God spoke to Elijah in a quiet voice. Like a whisper.

Imagine your life. How many loud things are clamoring around your life. Bills. Kids. Work Troubles. Marriage Troubles. Financial problems. Bad Diagnosis. These are all real and they are all very loud. Sometimes they are as loud as a windstorm tearing things down around you or like an earthquake, shaking the very ground you once thought was unshakable.

God spoke quietly. How easy it could be to miss it.

Elijah heard it. How? He had been walking with God. Praying to God. He was able to recognize God’s voice.

For me, I find myself constantly talking during my prayers or when I am “listening” for God. (please tell me I’m not the only one). You know….giving God our long list of wants, needs, prayers, you name it….it goes on and on and then (wait for it) I say Amen and move on with my life. Expecting God to answer them when I’m ready to hear the answer or in a way that’s big and easy. Now sometimes he does that but what about when it’s a whisper.

We need to listen for God to speak during our prayers. We need to listen for God when He whispers to us through a friend, stranger or song.

I need to slow down and be quiet. QUIET! And listen… walk with God. Give him a chance to speak.

God can whisper. Why? Because He’s close. He’s right there. Wait for it and see.

6 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

From The Publisher:

Waiting?

Still Waiting?

Christian Torres

is a graduate of Baylor University. He and his wife, Stephanie, have 3 daughters: Madeleine (14), Natalie (11) and Courtney (9). They live in McAllen and are members of Palm Valley Church of Mission.

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 7

“He who is devoid of the power to forgive, is devoid of the power to love.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Forgiveness. Easier said than done.

For some, forgiveness is often a difficult thing to accomplish. It is often referred to as the “unnatural act.” Yet, as believers in Jesus, our faith is predicated and built on the ultimate act of forgiveness – the Cross. Even Jesus, while being crucified, made the statement, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) The truth is that He first forgave us. If you consider yourself a follower of Christianity, then you have experienced Heaven’s forgiveness.

towards my father. During some turbulent years in our family, he neglected us for his personal addictions. I felt I had every right to be angry, mad, and upset. I wanted some type of justice and I felt that if I kept what he did in my heart, he wouldn’t be able to hurt me anymore. However, the work of the Spirit in my heart would not let those feelings stay imprisoned, and I am grateful. Eventually, I forgave my father with tears and we were reconciled. In

lives become open testimonies to the world that His message of reconciliation is real.” In moments of forgiveness, we are displaying the character of Christ more than any other time in our lives.

Here is something else to think about: when you forgive, you give God permission to act on your behalf. Hebrews 10:30 declares that “…it is mine to avenge; I will repay.”

The Lord is just, and He knows exactly how to handle it properly. When we try to take matters into our own hands, we often make it worse.

Forgiving allows God to move in your favor. Let God bring justice into your life. God sees every wrong that is being done to you, and He is going pay you back in abundance. Revenge is not part of a believer’s business. Let Heaven take care of it.

“When I was younger, I had resentment towards my father…

I felt I had every right to be angry, mad, and upset.”

We often find it easy to tell people to let go and let God. Obviously, this sounds so easy to do. But when placed in real context and in real lives, it can get messy. How do you tell a wife to forgive her husband who has mistreated her for years? How do you tell a teenager to forgive his parent for walking out on their life? How do you tell people to simply act like nothing has happened?

When I was younger, I had resentment

that moment, I learned that forgiveness is often hard for a believer to process, yet it is definitely a part of the believer’s process.

Forgiveness is one of the greatest weapons and tools a believer possesses.

We sometimes think that if we forgive, we may be considered weak and passive.

Let me give you a different perspective.

Forgiveness takes courage and it is a door into the power of Christ. Pastor Sergio de la Mora of California stated, “Our

The Forgiveness Factor

8 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Lastly, forgiveness sets you free. When I forgave my father, I was set free in my heart. I felt freedom to love and embrace him again. Forgiveness is a choice. Make a decision to allow the Spirit of God to clear out your heart of any grudges or bitterness. It may take time, but His love will prevail. Forgive, and be free.

Abram Gomez is the Executive Pastor at Valley International Christian Center in San Benito, Texas. He serves under the Leadership of Bishop Jaime Loya, and is a graduate of Southwestern Assemblies of God University. Abram has helped to develop leadership in various ministries and programs at VICC. He and his wife, Rebecca, currently reside in Harlingen, TX and are parents to Isabella Claire.

Dealing with Discouragement

By Greg Laurie

BIBLE READING: 1 John 1-5 We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him.

And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy. This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.

Copyright © 2013 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.

Why are you cast down, O my soul?

And why are you disquieted within me?

Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God. (Psalm 42:11)

Even the great apostle Paul had moments when he was discouraged. He wrote to the church at Corinth, “We were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8).

It’s not unusual for even the most spiritual people to have their days of doubt. Moses, on one occasion at least, was overwhelmed by his circumstances. After he had listened to the constant complaining of the children of Israel, he basically told the Lord, “I’m fed up. Just kill me. I don’t want to deal with this another day.”

Jeremiah, the great prophet, faced it as well. He was ridiculed and harassed for giving out the Word of God. Because he was tired of the pressure he was facing, it made him want to stop giving out God’s Word altogether. He said, “The word of the Lord was made to me a reproach and a derision daily. Then I said, ‘I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name’ ” (Jeremiah 20:8-9).

Elijah, after his contest with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, heard that Jezebel had put a contract out on his life.

He was so overwhelmed by his circumstances, so discouraged, so uncertain, and so filled with doubt that he said to God, “Take my life.”

You aren’t the only one who has ever faced doubt or uncertainty or has been perplexed as to why God did not work in a certain way. We may be in the midst of God’s working and can’t see the big picture as He can. We can trust His heart, even when we can’t trace His path.

10 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

“We may be in the midst of God’s working and can’t see the big picture as He can.”

Greg Laurie is Senior Pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Calif. He began his pastoral ministry at 19 by leading a Bible study of 30 people. Since then, God has transformed the small group into a church of 15,000 plus, one of the largest churches in America.

For more, visit www.greglaurie.com.

Used by permission from Harvest Ministries with Greg Laurie, PO Box 4000 Riverside, CA 92514

Karl Johnson 956.638.1424 karlsellsrealestate@gmail.com

L O V E 15 Ways To

Your Family Well 1 Corinthians 13: 4-6

Be patient Be kind Do not be jealous Do not be boastful Do not be proud Do not be rude Do not look out for your interest only Do not get angry with them easy Do not keep score of their wrongs Do not be happy when bad things happen to them Be full of joy Protect them Trust them Have hope for them Never give up on them

12 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 13

The Voice of Vocation

by Jerrell Jobe

“Y

our hands,” Job declared in the Ancient Hebrew texts, “have formed me and shaped me” (Job 10:8). The Psalmist echoed these words by saying, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14-15). In short, God went to great lengths to make you – you. Scripture makes it clear that God has intricately designed each of us. He has placed you on this earth, at this particular point in history.

The Apostle Paul once said, “from one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.

God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being’” (Acts 17:26-28).

This sounds poetic and idealistic, but what if it’s actually true?

What if God has a design for each of our lives?

What if we were placed in history, at this particular time, by God’s intention?

If we really understood this, would we merely allow life to happen to us? I don’t think anyone wakes up one day and says, “I’m just going to let life happen to me as it may.” No one intentionally reflects, “I’m just going to let things pile up

around me, until my schedule dictates my every move.” But if we’re not careful, this becomes our reality. At times, it’s easy to stop living intentionally and simply find our selves going through the motions. Slowly we become satisfied with merely “making a living” and getting by.

tion is often referred to as “a calling,” because vocation is something that calls to you – it’s your calling.

Vocation is not a goal that I pursue, it is a calling that I hear. “Before you can tell your life what you intend to do with it,” writes Parker Palmer, “I must listen to my life telling me who I am.”

Somewhere in life, often with the help of well-intended advisors, we chose a “career” path that was to direct us toward the Vocation does not emerge from some fulfillment of our goals in life. Unfortunately, voice “out there” that’s calling me to become something I they never informed us am not. No, vocation of the hidden reality behind the aforementioned “Always chasing something comes from a voice “in glimmering “career.” bigger and better, yet never here” calling me to be Interestingly, the very satisfied and content with the the person I was born current reality. “ to be. The premise here word “career” is derived is that God shaped from the French word for me and formed me, even in my mother’s “racetrack.” An apt word picture for “career” is that of a bunch of horses racing in womb. Therefore, true and full life is discovendless circles getting nowhere. For many, ered and lived when I discover and bea career is often nothing more than a rat come the person God created me to be. race. Always chasing something bigger and better, yet never satisfied and content Rabbi Zusya, when he was an old man, with the current reality. The chasing the ca- said, “In the coming world, they will not ask reer cheese is often motivated and fueled me: ‘Why were you not Moses?’ They will by some idea of the American Dream and ask me: ‘Why were you not Zusya?’” rising above the perceived status quo of When my life is done and over with, I pray those around us. This is not God’s desire, it will be said of me as it was said of King nor design.

David in the New Testament. Now when There’s another word that is often used in- David had served God’s purpose in his own terchangeably with career. Vocation. It’s generation, he fell asleep; he was buried often used as a synonym, but it carries with with his ancestors and his body decayed” it a completely different meaning than that (Acts 13:36). of career. Vocation comes from the Latin verb “vocare.” It means, “to call.” Voca- God placed you on the earth, at this time,

14 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Please call us at our new office. Let us introdu the powerful combination you have working f in this place, for a purpose. There are passions that God has planted within you. There’s a Voice (your vocation) that is calling out from within. There is a world with needs that you have been intricately designed to address. To fully live is to hear His voice and align your life according. True vocation joins self and service, as Frederick Buechner asserts when he defines vocation as “the place where your deep gladness meets the world’s deep need.”

Vocation, writes Parker Palmer, at its deepest level is, “This is something I can’t not do, for reasons I’m unable to explain to anyone else and don’t fully understand myself but that are nonetheless compelling.”

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What does your heart beat for?

You will never experience fulfillment in this life, until in Christ, you discover how God has designed you and what He’s calling you to do.

A FEW QUESTIONS TO PONDER: • What do my dreams and desires drift toward?

• What do I really want to do for God? • What motivates me to take action?

• What do I crave?

• What can I do to help you more?

• What do I care about?

• What pursuit would release the passion in my life for God? • What God-centered dreams can I identify that have been buried by life?

• Who do I feel I can most profoundly influence for God? • What age range do I feel led to minister to?

• What affinity group do I feel led to serve?

• How could I impact them in a way that maximizes my gifts?

• What needs will I meet?

• What would I attempt to do for God with the rest of my life?

• What cause or issue makes my heart race?

• Where could I make the greatest impact for God? • If time wasn’t an issue, to what cause would I donate myself?

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

–Isaiah 30:21 JERRELL JOBE

Jerrell is a teaching pastor at Palm Valley Church in Mission.

He is married to Charissa and has three children : Micah (11), Naylah (8),and Avi (6).

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 15

5

Scriptures to Pray Over Your Marriage

Lysa TerKeurst is a New York Times best selling author and speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith through following Jesus Christ. As president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, Lysa has lead thousands over the past 15 years to help make their walk with God an invigorating journey. In the midst of her ministry, though, Lysa is a real, everyday woman who simply seeks to glorify God through her life and family.

By Lysa Terkeurst

I

sat down to write some thoughts for a young friend getting married. I wanted these words to be encouraging but also realistic. I didn’t want to pen the typical “best wishes on your wedding day.” Wishes might be sweet for a church day full of flowers and white tulle but it takes a whole lot more for a marriage to go the distance.

So I wrote honest thoughts as they came to me: Being married is incredibly difficult. Being married is amazing. Being married can seem impossibly hard. Being married can seem incredibly beautiful.

There is no other person that can make me feel as frustrated as my husband can. There is no other person that can make me feel as loved as my husband can.

As these words tumbled out I wondered if my friend would think I was a bit crazy.

One minute I painted marriage as blissful as a kite catching wind and rising to the sky. And the next minute as if the string had gotten caught in a thorny bush and sent the kite crashing to the ground with thuds of disappointment.

So which is it? Bliss or disappointment?

It’s a fragile blend of both.

In the end I crumpled up my original note and simply wrote this, “Determine to pray more words over your marriage than you speak about your marriage.” I tucked the note into the white envelope as I tucked that statement into my own heart.

I wrote that note not because it had been true for my relationship

16 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

but because I suddenly realized I wanted it to be true.

The teacher being taught by her own written out lesson.

And you know what I’ve discovered in the weeks since? I haven’t been praying nearly enough for my marriage.

I think about things. I discuss things. I complain about things. I attempt to fix things.

I work on things. I apologize for things. I want to change things. And then I discuss things some more.

But talking about things and thinking about things and working on things… these are not at all the same as praying for them.

In Luke 6:39 Jesus asks a very important but simple question, “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?” My husband and I need Jesus leading us, guiding us, teaching us, redirecting us, and showing us how to have a marriage that honors Him and each other.

I want my husband and I to spend a lot less time in the pit this year.

And I think praying more words over my marriage will certainly be key to this. What about you? Below are some lovely Scriptures I’m weaving into my prayers right now.

But, before we end this post, will you commit to doing something with me? Let’s assign ourselves the next step we want to take with getting more intentional in praying for our marriages. If I were you right now, I’d be so tempted to think this would be a good idea but then not take the next step. But thinking about doing this

WORLDVIEW Seeing every sphere of life from God’s point of view is not just for PASTORS!

Bilingual Degrees: won’t change a thing.

Actually getting intentional about praying for something in my marriage today is the first step toward that marriage I’ve been dreaming of – the one that seemed so possible for Art and me twenty years ago in that church full of flowers and tulle.

Making sure I’m headed in that direction as a wife is only a few intentional prayers away.

Scriptures: “He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters… You are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light,” 2 Samuel 22:17 and 29.

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone,” Colossians 4:6.

“What shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms,” Ephesians 6:12.

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful,” Hebrews 10:23.

Master of Biblical Worldview Master of Christian Education Master of Divinity Master of Theology Doctor of Christian Education Doctor of Theology For more information, visit our web page at www.edinburgseminary.org or send a request to:

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If you’re seeking more encouragement for your marriage, my book Capture His Heart can help. Dr. Gary Chapman (author of The Five Love Languages) said Capture His Heart is “enjoyable, encouraging, and effective – a book women will read with eagerness.”

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 17

Is Anyone Else Up There???

By Milton Gonzalez

I

t has often been said that little faith will bring your soul to heaven, but great faith will bring heaven to your soul...

Faith is one of those words that we oftentimes toss around in an irresponsible and nonchalant way. We quote Hebrews 11:1 and we encourage others to “have faith” or we make it a point to tell them that it’s their “lack of faith” that has kept them from experiencing God’s goodness.

It becomes an easy task to trust and believe in a God that we cannot see when life is easy and comfortable. However, it is during the times of trying circumstances or agony when our faith is truly put to the test.

The Bible reminds us that it is faith that pleases God (Heb. 11:6) He is not impressed by your accolades, possessions or degrees. It is faith that moves Him.

physicians and remedies and nothing. As the years progressed her body became weaker and her hopes diminished.

Under the Mosaic law she was considered unclean as well as everything she came into contact with therefore she was sentenced to seclusion. For twelve years she suffered separation from family and

with him but yet she had great faith in Him. Continually she would speak these words...“If I could only touch the hem of his garment I will be healed” (Matt 9:21).

As Jesus was walking through town in the midst of the multitude she managed to make her way as close to Jesus as she was able to. I can picture her dragging herself as dirt was being kicked in her face and while onlookers stared her down knowing she was “unclean” but none of this managed to stop her. Oh no, she was determined and nothing was going to keep her from getting her miracle. As He was passing by she reached out and touched the very hem of his garment. That was all it took. She didn’t speak to Him and address her concerns or make her requests known. She just had enough faith to reach out to Him and as she did God’s power was released.

Her bleeding immediately stopped. Jesus saw her and said “my daughter your faith has healed you. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.”

(Mark 5:34)

“Faith cannot in any way be perceived by the five physical senses nor understood or even interpreted by the scientific method. Faith in God is a complete trust,”

There is a story of faith in the Bible that is perhaps one of my favorites. It is known as the “woman with the issue of blood”. For twelve years this woman had been hemorrhaging and she had done all there was to do and spent all she had on

friends. She was anemic and physically drained however she had managed to hear about Jesus “The Messiah” who went around healing people. She hadn’t seen him much less come into contact

18 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

In order for faith to be effective it must be

active not passive. It must be daring and not cowardly. Faith cannot in any way be perceived by the five physical senses nor understood or even interpreted by the scientific method. Faith in God is a complete trust, confidence and dependence on Him. The idea that many share about faith being blind is flawed. Blind faith is putting your trust in the unknown, it’s like shooting in the dark. We, as believers, in turn know who we are putting our faith and trust in and their is no blindness in that.

I read a story about a man that fell off a cliff, but managed to grab a tree limb on the way down. The following conversation ensued:

The Mortgage Lender Yo u c a n T r u s t !

Joe Cuellar Branch Manager

“Is anyone up there?”

“I am here. I am the Lord. Do you believe me?”

“Yes, Lord, I believe. I really believe, but I can’t hang on much longer.”

“That’s all right, if you really believe you have nothing to worry about. I will save you. Just let go of the branch.”

A moment of pause, then: “Is anyone else up there?”

Does this sound familiar? The fact that you, “the reader”, are reading this article in this very moment is not an act of chance, coincidence, accident or even choice...I believe that there is a reason. Perhaps you are the man hanging from a limb holding on to dear life of perhaps you are like the woman of the story. You have been suffering for a short or long period of time and you have lost hope in a better tomorrow. Whatever you are struggling with today whether it be physical, emotional, relational or financial God is able to turn it around if you are willing to believe. Miracles of great proportion happen when your faith and God’s power collide. The first step is to let go of the branch...

Are you willing???

Shalom, Milton

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Heb 11:6 NKJV

6

Milton Gonzalez Milton is the Principal of Covenant Christian Academy in McAllen and has a son David. He is married to Elena and they have a son Daniel.

Should I Build?

Is this the Best for Me? You won’t know if building a new home is your best option unless you talk to an unbiased mortgage professional. By gathering all your information, we will determine if building is your best choice.

Very often potential Home Buyers will be told by a builder to use his choice of a mortgage company. This may not be the wisest thing to do. An unbiased mortgage company does not have a commitment to any builder and will not be influenced to push you into a construction loan if it is not the best option.

Always get all your facts before moving forward on a construction loan. New construction may require you to have more expenses than buying an existing home. Only by gathering all your information can we really determine if building is the right thing for you and your family.

www.JoeCuellar.com Joe Cuellar, Manager for Castle & Cooke Mortgage, LLC 5412 N 10th Street McAllen, TX 78504 Office 956.687.6688 Mobile 956.789.2121

Tattoos &

Ties O

ne of my earliest memories growing up in the church were getting ready. In my house it began on Saturday night after watching the Incredible Hulk with Lou Ferrigno. My Mom called this process the five dollar job. She would make me take a bath, actually use a wash cloth, cut my finger nails, and wash my hair. Lot’s a work. This was to prepare us for the next day.

Sunday morning we were up bright and early, ate breakfast, then had to put on our Sunday clothes. Some people would call these clothes their “Sunday go to meeting” clothes. This meant dress pants (uncomfortable), polyester socks (no need to explain), weird brown shoes, and some kind of shirt with a tie or at least a collar on it. Needless to say, those clothes were not my favorite.

All of the adults present would be wearing their version of Sunday go to meeting clothes. Dresses for the ladies with weird hose, and uncomfortable looking shoes, some would wear hats, and some even

gloves. Men would wear suits.

Flash forward to today. Most Sundays when I go to our church I will see at least 20 pairs of flip flops, dudes wear hats, not the ladies, all kinds of interesting art work on arms and even necks, piercings of nose, ears, eyelids, and lips, and jeans are the pants du jour.

What in the world could these two distinctly different people groups have in common?

“Jesus would have been comfortable in both of these places. With folks who wear ties, or people with tattoos.”

They look different, talk different, music tastes are different so what is the tie that binds?

My Daddy was the pastor of my childhood church. He wore a tie and a robe on Sundays when he preached. The church had stain glass in the windows, and a huge pipe

20 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

organ was the musical instrument used to lead us in worship. Kids weren’t allowed to talk, and got pinched or looked at sternly by the adults if we did… but man, did those people love Jesus. That little church had a passion for missions. They supported multiple families and individuals around the world, and frequently had these missionaries, when on furlough (missionary break) come speak to us.

I loved those Sundays! White people dressed up in foreign outfits, speaking different languages, showing us grainy slides of pictures from their countries of mission. The church also had a fantastic VBS in the summer time, and cared for the neighborhood it was in.

They lived the gospel.

The church I lead now has electric guitars,

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Tom Weaver Pastor of Logos Community in McAllen. Married to Selina and have 3 wonderful girls: Carolina, Emma Lee, and Mary Grace.

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loud drums, and dudes with thick Abraham Lincoln beards. People raise their hands when we sing, and some get down on their knees. Kids cry and talk when I preach, and if I had a nickel for every-time a cell phone went off, well..you know. We say we are going to start on time every week, but we never do. My counseling docket is full with people with real problems just like you and me… but man, do our people love Jesus. We support church planters stateside, in Mexico, and in Africa. We also support local and foreign missions. Our people love to tell their stories so they can get to the best part, where Jesus saves them. Kids ministry is huge because the Valley has the most kids per capita than anywhere in the United States, and we get the pleasure of serving them every Sunday and sharing the Gospel with them. We love our neighborhood and desire to see the lesser thans have a welcome place in our community. We live the gospel.

Jesus would have been comfortable in both of these places. With folks who wear ties, or people with tattoos. His desire was for people to know Him, and to make Him known. His desire is for us to live a confessional life, have a repentant spirit, and put others first before ourselves. JESUS DOESN’T CARE WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE. HE CARES WHO YOU WORSHIP. So to those of you who are reading this and don’t know Jesus, know that He knows you. And He loves you. And He wants to be in community with you. Find a church that loves Jesus. One that loves tattoos and ties.

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G l o r y Kutless BEC Recordings Release Date: 11 February 2014

Valley Christian Magazine is excited to share a little Q&A from Kutless frontman Jon Micah about their new album “Glory” and the current heart and passion for the band.

VCM: What do you want to tell the readers of Valley Christian Magazine about this album and Kutless?

JM: We are so excited about this new record and are proud of the hard work we have put into every individual song. As worship leaders at our own church here in Portland, OR we have always had a heart for worship as well as a love of upbeat, rock and roll music. We realized we had the opportunity to really bring these two strengths together and our goal was to create a worship record of all original songs that could be sung by a congregation and maintained a worshipful atmosphere, while sonically pressing forward and bringing a bit of our rock edge and enthusiasm to these worship songs. We hope this record will encourage people to worship in Spirit and in truth and that it brings fresh life to Sunday morning worship services, your daily commute, or any time you simply want to sing out loud and worship Jesus. It is distinctly a congregational worship record, yet still distinctly a Kutless record and I believe it captures both our musical strengths as well as our distinct heart for worship.

VCM: Rock band or Worship band?

JM: Yes. Both. It is who we are. It is who we have always been. We have progressed and changed a bit over the years, but these two core elements have always been the backbone to the music that we write and record.

VCM: Whats in store for Kutless moving forward?

JM: We have really been focusing on the ministry aspect of what we do. It is easy to get caught up in the glitter of the music industry, but we feel that God has called

us to focus on sharing His love with people. We have a heart for evangelism and we hope that our music can continue to open doors so that we can continue to share the Gospel with those who need to hear it.

A little something about Kutless: Based in: Portland, Oregon Albums released: Seven studio albums on BEC Recordings.

Number of Gold Records: Two RIAA Gold-selling albums for Strong Tower and Live From Portland.

Number of No. 1 Singles: 12 No. 1 radio singles across all formats including their major hits “Strong Tower,” “What Faith Can Do” and “Carry Me To The Cross.”

Members: John Micah Sumrall, James Mead, Nick de Partee and Kyle Peek.

22 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 23

D

uring the holidays we were exposed to a lot of ads, mostly sentimental ones, which encouraged you to buy a certain product.

Hallmark had a commercial which featured snaps shots of people saying “tell me”. There was a child that said “tell me you’re proud of me”, another snapshot featured a woman who said “tell me you still love me”, “tell me I’m still beautiful”, there was an elderly woman who said “tell me you miss me”. There was even a man who said “tell me I’m still your hero”. It’s a great commercial because Hallmark knows all of us want to feel valued, loved and that we make a difference. If you hear these affirmations daily consider yourself blessed. But for most the longing to hear these things goes unmet.

At the end of the movie Scarlett realizes she loves her husband and runs to tell him everything he has needed to hear during the course of their marriage. What happens? Well its one of the greatest movie lines ever! “Frankly my dear I don’t give a d*@n! Rhett walks out. Why? Scarlet only focused on a “tell me” mentality. Sounds like a lot of relationships today where we wait until it’s too late to tell someone what we feel. That’s where the term “irreconcilable differences” was born. So what can we learn from Scarlet?

The word is full of daily affirmations.

Most people when they get to end of their lives regret what wasn’t said. Those left behind may also regret not having told their loved ones how they really felt. It’s a regret that doesn’t need to be.

Valentine’s Day is approaching and what a better time to lift up encourage and love on someone in your life. Yes there are the cards, candies and gifts but those quickly fade out. Your words on the other hand will stay with a person because as the Word says “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks”.

“Tell your child how blessed you are to have them and that they are loved unconditionally. Tell your spouse they are your hero and that you would marry them again. Tell your friends that they are the sunshine in your life.”

When I first saw the commercial I could easily identify with the women wanting to be reassured. What mother hasn’t wanted to hear from their children that she is loved? Or to be told by their husbands that they still see them as beautiful regardless of the years that have passed. If we don’t hear these affirmations it can feel like death.

What if I told you that you hold the power of life and death in your words would you believe me? We all have heard how negative words can impact us but we rarely discuss the absence of words. Silence is indifference.

Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death….

Just like Scarlett I can’t beg for my children or spouse to “tell me” daily. That would make me pretty needy and self-absorbed and trust me it rarely works! What I should be doing daily is reaffirming those around me that I value and love them and that they make a difference in my life. I can meet their needs with my words. So the focus of the commercial from identifying with the person needing to be told has now become being the one they are speaking to. If we were good at this than Hallmark wouldn’t of made this commercial. It’s good business.

Tell your child how blessed you are to have them and that they are loved unconditionally.

Tell your spouse they are your hero and that you would marry them again. Tell your friends that they are the sunshine in your life. Tell your parents thank you for all they have done. Tell your pastors or teachers how they have impacted your life. Tell random strangers they have a great smile or they look beautiful. We all need to hear these things so stop waiting to be told and start being the one who tries to fulfill this unmet longing in someone else. Tell them!

” … e m l l e “T

One of my favorite movies is “Gone with the Wind”. All women have a little of Scarlet O’Hara in them…ok maybe just me? She is vain yet insecure and constantly needs to be reassured about her beauty. She is prideful and rarely lets her guard down. She marries Rhett Butler out of need and not necessarily for love. He showers her with gifts and attention. She is needy and rarely shows appreciation for others especially her husband.

By: Theresa Valladares

If we are made in His image than can’t we also assume that God is waiting to hear these same things from us too? That’s why we worship and praise Him during service. It’s a time to tell Him that we love him and are thankful for all He has done in our lives. With maturity of faith comes the realization that the only way to be completely filled in our love tank is to go back to His love letter to us.

24 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Theresa Valladares She is married to Enrique Lopez and has two wonderful sons, Cord and Diego. They are members of The Family Church and she practices family medicine in Pharr.

If you are interested in placing your Engagement announcement or getting your wedding spotlighted in the Valley Christian Wedding & Engagement Section, please contact Stella Gallegos.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE GOING UNDER

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.”

29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.

30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” 31Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Matthew 14:28-31 28

by James MacDonald

quite like a familiar and confident voice in a dark place saying, “I’m here. There’s no reason to be scared.”

It doesn’t matter if you are 4 or 44. It doesn’t matter how many times you been in a dark and unpredictable situation.

Hearing that voice can be the difference between sinking and safety.

There’s nothing

Matthew 14:22–33 describes a night crossing when the disciples got caught in a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had sent them ahead in the boat alone. Interestingly, about half of the disciples were fishermen. They knew how dangerous the lake could be. It’s hard to figure out who was more afraid, those who knew what could happen or those who were wondering what would happen. Either way, there was a boatload of nervous guys out on the water in the dark.

Then, as the wind and the waves threatened to take them under, Jesus walked by—on the water! Without a flashlight on board, all they could see was a dim figure making His way through the swells toward the boat. They immediately forgot about the storm in their terror over the ghost! The disciples “cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid’” (vv.26–27).

Peter said to him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water” (v.28). I love this about Peter. He concluded, If Jesus says I can walk on water, I can walk on water. As usual, Peter’s mouth and actions were about ten sec-

onds ahead of his brain. But Jesus said, “Come,” and over the side went Peter.

Imagine his wonder when the water held him up—like a kid playing on a waterbed.

“But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, ‘Lord, save me’” (vv.29–30).

Aw, Peter! You were doing so well—what happened? Here’s what happened: he took his eyes off the Lord. He forgot the reason why he could walk among the waves.

Does that ever happen to you? When your eyes were on the Lord, life was good no matter what was going on around you. But the moment you become focused on the wind and waves, you started to sink.

Where are your eyes today?

If you’re going under, it’s because you’ve been looking at the waves (like your health or the pitch and roll of your retirement funds). You’ve been listening to the howling wind (like the constant voices of doom and gloom in our society). You have been taking your cues from what others are saying or the way they are acting instead keeping your mind stayed on Christ (Isaiah 26:3). But you can do better!

When things look bad you don’t have to conclude that they will remain bad; instead you can be watching for Christ to show up!

And if you do get distracted and start to sink, it’s time to call out like Peter, “Lord, save me!” The Savior will always rescue you

26 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Journal • In what storms, winds, and waves in your life do you need to start looking for Christ to show up?

• What’s usually your first clue that you’ve taken your eyes off the Lord?

Pray

Lord, it bothers me that every storm feels like the first time I’ve been out on the water. Why can’t I do better at remembering all the other times You have been faithful? Why do I so easily forget Your constant demonstrations of care?

Forgive the way I’m prone to wander.

Forgive my effortless distractions. Thank You for being equally patient with me as You are faithful to me. Continue to guide me toward greater faithfulness on my part. I know I’m doing better than I did even a year ago. Thank You! In Jesus’ name, amen.

Listen to Walk in the Word locally

weekdays at 5:30a.m.

James MacDonald is founding and Senior Pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel in northwest Chicago.

James’ teachings can be heard on Walk in the Word, a daily radio program reaching more than 3 million people across North America.

Used by permission of Walk in the Word, Elgin, Ill., 61023. www.walkintheword.com by permission of Walk in the Word,Elgin, Ill., 61023.

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February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 29

Why Does The Bible Call Jesus “The Word”?

By Carey Kinsolving & Friends

“Jesus is the Word because through him all things are made,” says Jonathan, 8. “What he said became. Through the words of Jesus, the Earth and man were made. So, he is the Word.”

When we read, “In the beginning was the Word” in John’s Gospel, we should immediately think of another Bible text that begins with the same introductory phrase. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

into being. The Apostle John presents Jesus as the eternal Word, who took on flesh and blood so that we could behold God’s glory.

Around

the

globe,

gigantic

radio

Creation is God’s general revelation, but Jesus Christ is God’s personal message to us.

John’s purpose is to establish the fact that Jesus is God and man in one person.

By presenting Jesus Christ as the Word through which all things were created, John is saying that God chose Jesus as his messenger/messiah to tell us about himself. Jesus is God and the revealer of God the Father.

“No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him” (John 1:18).

The revelation of God starts with creation, but it doesn’t end there. God is personal.

In the teaching, life and work of Jesus Christ, God communicated everything he desired. Creation is God’s general revelation, but Jesus Christ is God’s personal message to us.

In Greek philosophy, the concept behind the Word (Logos) is the divine principle that permeates an orderly universe. In the Old Testament, the Word carries the idea of active power. God spoke the universe

telescopes point to the heavens for any intelligent signal from outer space. In Jesus, we have God’s heaven-to-Earth message.

At times, God must be wondering, “Is anyone listening?”

“I think Jesus was a message of God’s love,” says Abby, 11. “I also think he showed this by suffering on the cross for every one of our sins. And now because of ‘the Word’ and his love, we have a chance to have an eternal life in heaven.”

thought they had silenced the true Word when Roman soldiers drove nails into Jesus’ hands and feet. What appeared as a complete triumph of darkness over light only demonstrated the wisdom, power and truth of Jesus’ words about his triumphal resurrection. Almost 2,000 years later, lying words seek to rob us from the light of that true Word. No matter how dark things get in any generation, there will always be some who accept the light who gives eternal life.

Think about this: Jesus Christ is God’s personal message of love, truth and peace to us.

Memorize this truth: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

Ask this question: Do you know Jesus as the true Word, who gives light and life?

I couldn’t have said it better, Abby.

“I think the Bible calls Jesus the Word because he speaks the truth,” says Leilani, 10. “He tells us to believe in him. He wants us to spread the Word of him to everyone.”

Jesus Christ didn’t promise a rose garden to those who believe in him as the way, the truth and the life. He told his disciples to expect hatred from those who reject him. The Apostle John presents Jesus as a great light entering a dark world. His light would shine so brightly that the opposition and lies of those living in darkness would not be able to overcome him (John 1:4-5).

The evil one and those he controlled

30 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Carey Kinsolving’s Kids Talk About God syndicated column is distributed by Creators Syndicate.

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A Note From Nathan...

Hello! Great things are happening with FCA. We are working hard on our upcoming Spring Banquet. This year’s banquet is going to great...you’re not going to want to miss it. Look for the final date and details next month. If you would like to reserve your table, call Robin at 956-994-1121. CAMPS! This is going to be our best summer of camps. Get involved. Buy a sign to bless a student by sending sponsoring their camp costs.

Nathan Jones

Mulit-Area Director Fellowship of Christian Athletes njones@fca.org

Greater things are yet to come!

Nathan Jones

FCA Vision To see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of athletes and coaches.

FCA Mission To present to athletes and coaches and all whom they influence the challenge and ad-

venture of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relation-ships and in the fellowship of the church.

FCA Core Values Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Service, Teamwork and Excellence.

32 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

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Living

“L

ike a dog that returns to its vomit…Is a fool who repeats his folly.”

I am often more like the fool than the wise man, and I return to my folly more often than I ought. It would be nice to find wisdom pills that can be digested with the resulted wisdom I need for the day. Vitamin BYT, Bite Your Tongue, would come in handy. A dose of Vitamin LP, Loving Reproof, would help me when dealing with my children at home and with my students at school.

There are no such vitamins, but fortunately God provides small doses of wisdom throughout the book of Proverbs to help guide us.

Charles Swindoll’s Living the Proverbs is a devotional for Christ followers. Its subtitle Insight for the Daily Grind reminds us that life is tough, and a bit of insight from God’s word can help.

The devotional can fill 26 weeks of your life, or it can be a resource for time of need.

The book of Proverbs addresses a lot of life’s issues, such as the following

the

Proverbs

Tongue. Swindoll does a nice job with this topic in particular. He covers five wrong ways the tongue can be used in the first part: Deceitful flattery 1. Gossip and slander 2. Arguments, strife, and angry words 3. Boasting 4. Verbosity

In the second section of The Grind of an Uncontrolled Tongue, Swindoll walks the reader through some ways that help avoid the problems previously discussed.

1. Wise counsel and sound advise 2. Reproof, rebuke, spiritual exhortation

• Disobedience

3. Words of encouragement

• Worry

4. Witnessing, teaching, comforting

• Unguarded heart • Troubled heart • Discontentment • Procrastination • Laziness • Addiction • Revenge • Envy

Charles R. Swindoll Published by Worthy

5. A good sense of humor As the topics are addressed, Swindoll uses the truth of God’s word to help us see the problem and address it practically.

Biblical wisdom is an asset that is lacking even among Christians. Even if this book does not make it to your shelf, turn to the pages of Proverbs in the Bible and learn and apply the wisdom that comes from God

Charles Swindoll discusses these issues and more in his book. Each topic fills one week of devotion.

The topic that resonates with me is covered in two weeks, The Grind of an Uncontrolled

34 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Book Review by

Miguel Paredes Is a teacher at Edinburg North and earned his Masters in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary.

He is married to Brenda and has four children: Diego (12), Karla and Andrea (9), and Charis (5).

Home Run

Learn God’s Game Plan for Life and Leadership

By Kevin Myers and John C. Maxwell (FaithWords/Hachette Book Group) Release Date: Feb 4, 2014

You are invited to live life to the fullest.

www.kvmv.org

For five hard years Christian leader Kevin Myers struggled personally and professionally. But it was during that time that God pointed out where he was going wrong and showed him the biblical pattern for living. It proceeded to transform his life, leadership, ministry, and relationships. During that time John Maxwell also became his mentor.

Together, using a baseball diamond as an analogy for following God’s plan for life, Myers and Maxwell provide a clear path forward while helping you keep your priorities in order and your eyes on the prize. What is that pattern?

1. Jamie Grace Beautiful Day CD: Ready to Fly

Connection with God: Winning Dependence Character: Winning Within Community: Winning with Others Competence: Winning Results Challenging, heart-felt, and insightful, Myers’ story will connect with anyone who feels their life is falling short of God’s promises.

The hard-won lessons Myers learned, along with insightful comments and on-point application from Maxwell, will make it possible for you to win in this performance-based culture without losing your soul.

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This Amazing Grace CD: The Ascension

8. Building 429I Won’t Be Shaken CD: Won’t Be Shaken

Overcome CD: Overcome

9. Chris Tomlin

God’s Great Dance Floor CD: Burning Lights

February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 35

Courtyard Praise

VCM Talks to Robert “ Bob” Ordway about

Eli Lara of Valley Christian Magazine sat down with Robert “Bob” Ordway of First Presbyterian of McAllen to talk about a new Ministry effecting not only their church but beyond their walls to include our community.

Courtyard Praise.

Robert “Bob” Ordway

Courtyard Praise takes place on the First Friday of the Month and showcases different local Christian bands from different churches across the Valley. This event is free and open to everyone. ******************

congregation is getting older right along with the church. I felt God leading me to reach the next generation and to not give up on the local church.

I went to the elders of the church and asked for $200 for a Ministry that would effect not only our church but our community.

Their response was $200 was not enough. They gave me $1200!

Courtyard Praise was birthed.

VCM: Tell us about Courtyard Praise: Bob: Three Purposes for Courtyard Praise: 1. To present the Gospel through music and contemporary language.

2. Spotlight local bands that can showcase their talent for When I first met Bob, I was blown away at his excitement, passion Christ. and commitment for this new Ministry in his church. What really 3. Bring attention to the church as we are celebrating our stuck with me was that Bob, despite his age, is still on fire for God 105th anniversary as a church here in McAllen, TX. and willing to do what it takes to make God number one in his life and doesn’t let his age or the fact that he’s in a wheelchair We are hoping for a great response. We are hoping that Courtwith health problems, slow him down. yard Praise can be blessing to our community. The church has really gotten involved and has stepped up. Through volunteers, VCM: Bob Tell me a little bit about yourself? prayer and overall support.

Bob: I just had my 81st birthday. I grew up in the church my entire life. As a youth, I went to a summer conference that VCM: Why do this? changed my life. I made a commitment to the Ministry. I have always had a heart to serve and 3 years ago I started attending Bob: Why not?!

First Presbyterian Church in downtown McAllen.

VCM: Bob…You’re 81 years old!

I started getting involved in my local church. From there, my vision for more of God took me to another level.

Bob: God is not finished with me yet. No matter how old you are or think you are…God can still stir your heart to do great things VCM: Explain how that happened? for Him. If Courtyard Praise does not work, we will continue to go forward and find different ways to share the gospel and reach Bob: I received a vision. A vision to reach young people in our the next generation for Christ. community. Our church has been around for 105 years. Our

Courtyard Praise @ 12th & Austin Ave For more information on Courtyard Praise, call First Presbyterian Church of McAllen at 956-682-2836 Church: First Presbyterian of McAllen Ministry: Courtyard Praise Who: Robert “Bob” Ordway When: First Friday of the Month – 8pm Where: Corner of 12th and Austin Ave – Downtown McAllen Contact: 956-682-2836 Website: www.FPCMCALLEN.com

36 valleychristianmagazine.com February 2014

Feb 7 & Mar. 7th Courtyard of Praise

First Presbyterian Church Mcallen

Courty @ 12th &ard Praise Austin Ave

February 13th Valley Christian Magazine’s Coffee Talk 11:45am Embassy Suites McAllen

SEC Movement South

4/25 & 4/26

Andy Mineo w/The Digital Age Mcallen

Courtyard Praise @ 12th & Austin Ave Feature Band:

A.C. and Good News Date:

Feature Band:

Destiny Date:

Friday, February 7

Friday, March 7

8:00pm

8:00pm

Time:

If you are a local band or singer and would like to participate, email us your contact information along with an audition CD/DVD to: rkordway@hotmail.com

Time:

First Presbyterian Church Downtown McAllen Location at 12th & Austin Ave. February 2014 valleychristianmagazine.com 37

Humility, Gratitude and Contentment Dear Dave, Do you have any advice for teaching responsibility and generosity to adult children and grandkids when it comes to money?

Justin Dear Justin, I think there are three key factors when it comes to teaching children of any age about these concepts—humility, gratitude and contentment. In my mind, humility is where gratitude comes from, and gratitude leads to contentment.

I’m generous to my adult children, but they have no sense of entitlement. That’s due to their personal humility. They don’t feel that I owe them anything, and they already know that anyone who cops an entitlement attitude gets cut off. You’re no longer qualified for my generosity when you lose your gratitude.

You’ve got to spend time talking to kids about these things. Otherwise, you run the risk of them counting on the income. Here’s an example. We coach some family businesses at my company, and the best family businesses are the ones that teach non-employee family members who receive money from the business—dividends from the profits—never to live on those dividends. I’ve seen lots of cases where someone will start living on the business they don’t work in, and they immediately start feeling entitled to the money.

The same principle applies in your situation. If someone starts saying, “Well, since mom and dad are paying for our daycare, we can use that money we would have spent to buy a car.” That means they’ve started counting on mom and dad’s generosity to live, and that’s a form of entitlement mentality.

None of our kids receive any kind of financial help from us at all, unless they’re already carrying their weight in their own lives. That’s not being cold. It’s teaching responsibility and self-reliance. Now it would be different if one of them developed a serious medical issue or something like that. But the whole idea that mommy and daddy have lots of money, and I can just get some from them? That doesn’t fly in our family.

You have to teach them character and giving in order for them to be valid recipients. Plus, it’s all about the kids’ attitude. But you’ve got to talk about it often and communicate the value system out loud. The gifting and generosity are contingent upon the humility that leads to gratitude that leads to contentment.

—Dave

A Squirrel Fund Dear Dave, My husband works construction, so we barely scrape by during the winter months.

Should we build an emergency fund for the slow times?

As k

Dave

Ramsey For more financial help please visit: www.daveramsey.com Dave Ramsey is a personal money-management expert and extremely popular national radio personality. His three New York Times best-selling books—Financial Peace, More Than Enough and The Total Money Makeover—have sold more than 6 million copies combined.

His latest book, EntreLeadership: 20 Years of Practical Business Wisdom from the Trenches, released in September 2011.

Cathy Dear Cathy, I think that’s a great idea. Although, I’d probably call it something other than an emergency fund. How about a squirrel fund? Squirrels need to have nuts saved up for winter, and in your case you’d be setting money aside during the summer to get you through the slow winter months.

You may think I’m playing games with the name, but really I’m not. This sort of saving isn’t for emergencies. It’s a budget issue, because you’re planning and setting aside cash leading up to the down time you know is coming. Keep your emergency fund of three to six months of expenses separate from this, and take a careful look at what he made this winter and how much that left you short each month.

Remember, we’re not talking about some random amount of money here. It’s an exact amount that you can budget for accordingly. Teachers can do the same thing if they’re not paid 12 months a year. It’s a simple matter of planning ahead for the down time, and setting aside enough during the other nine months to see you through!

—Dave

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Every morning most kids wonder, “What’s on TV?” “Where are we going today?”

Help us make sure they don’t ever wonder,

“Do we have food?”

“For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in.” Matt. 25:35

Donate, Volunteer, Advocate.

$5 provides 25 healthy meals for children in the RGV. 724 North Cage Blvd., Pharr, Texas 956-682-8101 www.foodbankrgv.com

Mega Purse Event, Friday, February 7, 2014 Tickets on sale now at: www.foodbankrgv.com

Raul “Rudy” Rodriguez attorney at law

For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required--Luke 12:48

www.raulrudyrodriguezlaw.com

Phone: 956.380.1421 / Toll Free:

877.480.1421 Fax: 956.380.2920 / Mobile: 956.655.5455

NKJV

511 W. University / Edinburg, TX 78539 e-mail: anointed511@gmail.com